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Spicy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole Recipe

Spicy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole Recipe


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4.8 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 7 1x

Description

Jalapeño popper chicken casserole brings together creamy, spicy flavors in a comforting dish. Cheese, crispy bacon, and bold jalapeños create a mouthwatering meal that satisfies hungry diners.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (960 ml) cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 ½ cups (360 ml) shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup (120 ml) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 34 fresh jalapenos, diced (seeds removed for less heat)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) green onions, chopped (optional)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) crushed pork rinds or crushed Ritz crackers (for topping)
  • 2 tbsps (30 ml) melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prep Station: Preheat oven to 375F (190C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent adhesion.
  2. Flavor Foundation: Whip cream cheese and sour cream together, blending in garlic and onion powders, salt, and pepper until achieving a velvety smooth texture.
  3. Protein Fusion: Integrate shredded chicken into the creamy mixture, folding in diced jalapenos, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses to create a robust and zesty filling.
  4. Layering Strategy: Spread the chicken mixture evenly across the prepared baking dish, ensuring a consistent flavor profile throughout the casserole.
  5. Texture Enhancement: Sprinkle remaining cheese over the surface, then crown with crispy bacon crumbles to introduce a complementary crunch and depth of flavor.
  6. Crunchy Topping: Combine crushed pork rinds or crackers with melted butter, then scatter the golden mixture across the casserole’s surface for an enticing crisp layer.
  7. Baking Transformation: Slide the dish into the preheated oven, baking uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the top turns a golden bronze and the interior becomes effervescent with bubbling goodness.
  8. Final Flourish: Garnish with freshly chopped green onions to introduce a vibrant, herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish.
  9. Serving Perfection: Rest the casserole momentarily, allowing flavors to harmonize before presenting this indulgent creation to anticipating guests.

Notes

  • Customize Spice Levels: Adjust jalapeno quantity based on personal heat tolerance, removing seeds for milder flavor or adding more for extra kick.
  • Prevent Soggy Texture: Pat chicken dry before shredding to eliminate excess moisture and maintain a crisp casserole consistency.
  • Enhance Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken with turkey or rotisserie meat for convenient preparation and varied protein options.
  • Optimize Cheese Melting: Allow cheese to reach room temperature before mixing to ensure smoother blending and more even distribution throughout the dish.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 7
  • Calories: 493
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 811 mg
  • Fat: 34 g
  • Saturated Fat: 16 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 116 mg